In a historic move, the Mexican Congress, with approval from both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, has passed a reform that bans the use of dolphins, sea lions, orcas and other marine animals in shows, therapies, entertainment, and any activities unrelated to their conservation.
The new law also prohibits the captive breeding of marine mammals and mandates that dolphins currently housed in facilities like dolphinariums must remain under supervision in environments that ensure their well-being until their natural death.
According to World Animal Protection, over 300 dolphins have been exploited in Mexican facilities over the past few decades, many of them born in captivity and forced to live confined lives while undergoing training.
The organization highlights that there is compelling evidence that dolphins experience chronic stress, behavioral issues, and health problems linked to the artificial conditions of the tanks they are kept in.
Mexican animal rights organizations praised this legislative decision, and urged authorities to closely monitor the welfare of the dolphins that remain in captivity.
The legislation will affect three popular tourist attractions in Puerto Vallarta—Vallarta Adventures, Aquaventuras Park, and Splash Water Park. These venues, which offer shows and interactions with dolphins, including swimming experiences, have yet to announce whether they will close immediately or continue operations until the law is fully enforced.
The new law will take effect 180 days after it is signed by President Claudia Sheinbaum and published in the Official Gazette of the Federation.
Several countries, including New Zealand and Costa Rica, have already implemented similar laws, banning dolphin shows and interactions such as swimming due to concerns about animal welfare and the potential harm to both humans and dolphins. Dolphins can carry diseases that are transmissible to humans, raising concerns about disease outbreaks.
Under the new law, any scientific research aimed at the protection and conservation of dolphins and other marine species must be conducted by an officially registered institution and authorized by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat).